Jamie Robillard, “The most rewarding part for me is watching the kids having fun, from the mini tyke, tyke and novice divisions on up. It’s like the young kids who play ice hockey. They might fall down 50 times in a game, but they’ll probably be the first to come of the ice and tell you they had fun.”

 

In 1979, Jamie started the Penetang-Midland Minor Ball Hockey League which, over the years, grew into a Youth Association with a membership reaching approximately 900, including both boys and girls.

 

Jamie joined the Ontario Ball Hockey Association's Board of Directors in 1985, acting as Provincial Tournament Director and Chair of both the Minor and Men’s divisions of the Provincial Championships. As a result of his efforts the towns of Midland and Penetang had the opportunity to host several Provincial Championships over the years.

 

Because of his dedication, commitment and tireless effort in the sport of Ball Hockey, in 1993, he was awarded the OBHA's highest honour - Its Lifetime Achievement Award.

 

In December of 2006, Jamie joined the Ontario Ball Hockey Association as their coaching and officiating director. This led to his involvement in national and international ball hockey where he was very respected and his input and advice were often sought. During this time and under his leadership, the local ball hockey program continued to grow and flourish both at the minor and adult levels.

 

He was instrumental in developing the sport, not just locally, but Provincially, Nationally and Internationally. His hard work led to a large number of local players having the opportunity to participate at these levels and be a part of World Championships teams. In addition, Jamie spearheaded the development of the national and international referee program. He also established a certification process that trained instructors, developed a referee's handbook, upgraded the national rule book, clinic curriculum and established exams with follow-up procedures to help support referees.

 

For over 50 years, his passion and vision for the sport of ball hockey continues to fuel the growth allowing athletes of all ages to participate in a sport they love.